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Construction Operations (Construction)

Construction Operations (Construction)

SQA’s portfolio of QCF qualifications in Construction Operations includes both competence- and knowledge based qualifications at QCF Level 2. The relevant SQA codes are detailed below.

The NVQ Certificates and Diplomas are competence-based qualifications which are designed to provide learners with an opportunity to demonstrate, in a real workplace environment, that they are competent against a set of performance statements.

There is also a knowledge-based Diploma that tends to be carried out in an 'off-the-job' training environment. This will provide learners with the opportunity to develop the underpinning Knowledge and Understanding associated with the job role whilst also allowing the learners to practice the practical skills needed to perform the job role effectively.

The Certificates and Diplomas are based on the National Occupational Standards for Construction Operations and can be used to develop competences or to progress to further professional/academic qualifications.

Qualification Title Type Ofqual Code SQA code
SQA Level 2 NVQ Certificate in Construction Operations (Construction) – Laying Kerbs and Channels Competence 600/3333/2 GD90 66
SQA Level 2 NVQ Certificate in Construction Operations (Construction) – Structural Concreting Competence 600/3333/2 GD91 66
SQA Level 2 NVQ Certificate in Construction Operations (Construction) – General Construction Competence 600/3333/2 GD8Y 66
SQA Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Construction Operations (Construction) – Modular Paving Construction Competence 600/3445/2 GE0J 68
SQA Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Construction Operations (Construction) – Drainage Construction Competence 600/3445/2 GE0K 68
SQA Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Construction Operations (Construction) – Excavation and Reinstatement Competence 600/3445/2 GE0G 68
SQA Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Construction Operations (Construction) – General Building Operations Competence 600/3445/2 GE0H 68
SQA Level 2 Diploma in Construction Operations (Construction) Knowledge 600/2838/5 GD40 60

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Who does this qualification suit

The competence-based qualifications are aimed at experienced workers in Construction Operations (Construction Civil Engineering related trades), seeking to develop their competence and improve their skills and knowledge.

The knowledge-based qualifications are primarily aimed at apprentices in Construction Operations (Construction Civil Engineering related trades), seeking to develop their skills and knowledge.

The qualifications are suitable for apprentices, and are registered on the Apprenticeship framework in Construction Civil Engineering (Construction Operations) at Level 2.

Progression

These qualifications can lead to employment within the construction industry, particularly through Level 2 Apprenticeships.

They provide invaluable practical experience to learners who aspire to the more technical professions in Construction Operations.

For learners aspiring to supervisory positions, the qualification can also lead to supervisory qualifications including Occupational Work Supervision.

Approval

Information regarding the centre approval process is available from SQA's Business Development team.

How to assess

The structure of these qualifications allows for a high degree of flexibility in assessment.

Competence-based Certificate and Diploma

Direct evidence produced through normal performance in the workplace is the main source of assessment for the NVQ Certificate and Diploma. This includes naturally occurring documentary evidence (hard copy and electronic), direct observation of activities and witness testimony.

For all Units, assessment is based primarily on practical activities and, where possible, holistic assessment is encouraged — particularly the integration of assessment for the mandatory Units covering health & safety and efficient working practices with those covering job specific activities.

The focus should be on assessing activities generated by the whole work experience rather than focusing on specific tasks, or individual Units.

Knowledge-based Diploma

Learners’ Knowledge and Understanding will be assessed through practical assignments and question-based activities in the training environment.

Holistic assessment is encouraged — particularly the integration of assessment for the mandatory Units covering health and safety, efficient working practices and setting out secondary dimensional controls with those covering job-specific activities.

The focus should be on assessing activities generated across the training programme rather than focusing on specific tasks, or individual Units.

The full training specification for this qualification is contained in the SQA Training and Assessment Programme (TAP) for Construction Operations (Construction).

Qualification content and delivery tools

Structure

The structure of the qualifications allows for a high degree of flexibility in delivery. They are work-based qualifications normally achieved over a minimum period of 18 months.

SQA Level 2 NVQ (competence-based) Certificate in Construction Operations (Construction)

The Level 2 Certificate involves practical work-related tasks ranging from laying kerbs and channels to general construction.

Learners must complete 31 credits drawn from mandatory Units and optional Units. On completion, the learner will have achieved a minimum of 104 guided learning hours.

SQA Level 2 NVQ (competence-based) Diploma in Construction Operations (Construction)

The Level 2 Diploma involves practical work-related tasks ranging from modular paving construction to general building operations.

Learners must complete 47 credits drawn from mandatory Units and optional Units. On completion, the learner will have achieved a minimum of 157 guided learning hours.

SQA Level 2 (knowledge-based) Diploma Construction Operations (Construction)

The Level 2 Diploma involves practical work-related tasks and the underpinning knowledge to undertake them effectively, for example laying kerbs and channels.

Learners must complete 38 credits drawn from mandatory Units and optional Units. On completion, the learner will have achieved a minimum of 380 guided learning hours.

Arrangements Documents

Learner Guidance & Portfolio

Unit and Assessment Specifications / Assessment Guidance

Unit and Assessment Specifications and Assessment Guidance for these qualifications are available on SQA's Secure website. These are available from your centre's SQA co-ordinator. For further information, please contact mycentre@sqa.org.uk

Any Other Information

Other qualifications offered by SQA relating to Certificate/Diploma in Construction Operations

SQA offers a complete suite of Street Works qualifications for operatives and supervisors working on the roads/highways - www.sqa.org.uk/streetworks

These Street Works qualifications meet the requirements of the New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (NRSW) which requires work involving the installation, renewal, maintenance and inspection of underground apparatus in the highway to be under the control of competent persons who are in possession of a valid Street Works card. Qualifications are delivered through SQA approved centres.

CSCS Cards

Many construction contractors and clients insist that all workers on site hold a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to prove competence in their stated occupation and to show that they have relevant health and safety awareness. The CSCS cards for construction workers are based on their job, experience and qualifications, or membership of a professional body.

CSCS cards can be obtained through completion of construction-based Apprenticeship frameworks, by applicants providing copies of their fully indentured Apprenticeship papers gained through the provider of the Apprenticeship programme.